Authored by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Ten months prior, in October 2022, I felt nervous and uncertain about what was ahead. I was set to embark on my degree in Materials Science and Engineering as a freshman. Venturing into the unfamiliar was not something my previously reserved self was well-acquainted with. Looking back now, I recognize a year replete with personal development, hurdles, and plenty of enjoyment! But what insights have I gained, and what is my current state?
One of the first and most intimidating obstacles was forging friendships. This is frequently one of the most daunting aspects of commencing university, and if you’re an incoming student, it may be a concern weighing on your mind. On my initial day of moving into my accommodation, a few days before the semester commenced, I spent the entire day in my room, too daunted to venture out and interact with others. Now, I can assert with certainty that I’ve formed some of the greatest friendships here at university and within my course. I’ve discovered a second family at Imperial, and it all initiated with brief conversations with individuals in comparable situations. So, what did I discover? I learned that taking a chance at the beginning of the year is crucial. If you’re not prepared or at ease, don’t fret! There will be numerous social events designed to assist you in connecting with others. I also realized that being authentic is essential. With such a wide array of diverse individuals across the course and university, you’re sure to find those who resonate with you.
Another hurdle was the volume of work and the complexity of the material. There was a noticeable leap from A-levels, and an even larger leap from the first term to the second. Being in such an environment can have an impact on your self-esteem; you may feel less capable compared to your peers. What guided me through was the reminder that everyone is experiencing the same challenges. If something isn’t clear to you, it’s likely others are in the same situation. Therefore, don’t hesitate to seek assistance. This might be the most crucial lesson learned in the first year. Reach out for help from classmates and faculty!
This leads me to my next point. The faculty in Materials are exceptional. They genuinely want you to thrive and comprehend the challenges students encounter. They show understanding and keep open lines of communication with us about our concerns. I didn’t utilize the support services until the end of the year, but I wish I had done so earlier. I spoke about taking chances – I took one by stepping into the role of a year well-being representative. This position enabled me to connect with faculty members, which is invaluable. There are countless avenues to engage with faculty, and it’s one of the best decisions you can make for yourself! My primary takeaway is to make use of the assistance available. You can never have too much!
In summary, this year has illuminated that feelings of anxiety, both prior to and while at university, are often unwarranted and can be alleviated through the support provided by faculty and fellow students. It has demonstrated to me that I’m never alone and taught me how to find enjoyment even amidst pressures like exams and deadlines.